The Source for Yacht Charter Around the World

BOOKING OPTIONS

Broker vs. Charter Companies vs. Single owners
Who should you use to book your Yacht Charter?

Boats breakdown. Even new ones breakdown. Boats are subject to a harsh marine environment and constant ultraviolet radiation. If you have expectations of a guaranteed trouble free vacation, you may be disappointed should a minor inconvenience occur. Give yourself extra protection, from past experience, avoid a cash payment transfer and use a credit card. At least if something goes wrong one can dispute with your credit card company. How you book your charter is a very important one, charters are not risk free.

Broker vs. Charter Companies vs. single owners. How to choose is the tough part. Having used all of the above, we have included some pros and cons of each so you can make an educated decision.

   

A good reliable broker can be invaluable to planning a successful yacht charter for many reasons. Brokers are third parties who have access to many different companies, or owners, who offer boats for charter. Their services and knowledge will not cost you any extra money as their fee is covered by the boat owners. A broker is also providing great services to the boat owner by taking care of the paperwork, details and financial arrangements. Good brokers should be familiar with the boats that they offer. Although the broker may not be in physical proximity of the boats, a good broker will travel regularly to see the fleet and/or have such a close business relationship with the base or boat owner that he or she is aware of the condition of the boats that they are offering you. Even though, a broker may not be on site with the boats he or she is promoting, remember they have a powerful fleet of "inspectors" which are in fact their clients who always report back from their vacation with the best unbiased feedback to your broker. However, it is always wise to ask many questions of where the boat is coming from, and what is the back up if a boat becomes a problem. Some brokers are empowered to get discounts from companies that they send a lot of business to. As they represent repeat business, they may be able to negotiate additional free incentives such as a sleep aboard, transfer, early check-in. They may also assist in the provisioning arrangements. Be sure to ask what they can do for you. For some destinations, off the beaten path, a broker can be an invaluable liaison, not only with boat owner but also with previous clients who have explored some more adventurous territory. Hearing it straight from someone who has just returned from a charter on a boat or from a destination that you may be considering is extremely helpful. If you have any doubts about your plans, ask for references from previous client, a good broker should be happy to provide them.

Individual owners are another method of chartering. These boats are usually very well cared for and maintained. They may also have amenities that are not seen on the heavily used charter boats. For example, generators, air conditioning, water makers and a better sail inventory. The problem here is that if the boat becomes laid up, chances are your vacation is over before it happens. Sure the owner may reimburse you for the charter, but not any of the other expenses associated with travel.

Charter companies are the cornerstone of the industry. Some are larger than others. Many destinations are represented by a couple of worldwide charter groups that have main offices in the US. The advantage of dealing with these companies is that when you return home from a problematic charter, you may seek resolution at home. A reimbursement can be followed up locally or a credit may be granted for use on a future charter in one of their many destinations. Whereas dealing directly with a local company, in another corner of the world, you may have difficulty in obtaining any reimbursement. Credit would only be available for the same destination that may no longer hold your interest.

Another advantage with a charter company is that if a boat has been pulled out of commission, there is backup available. Most charter companies will bend over backwards to please the customer if they are at fault. Larger companies also have chase boats that will come out to you on the water to make minor repairs. Charter boats are used close to 52 weeks out of the year give or take. With that being said, the wear and tear of general use can be a bit disappointing. Do not expect a sparkling new boat, unless of course you are paying for that. Even what is known as a premier boat, less than two years old, could have the signs of being used heavily.

Always ask about last minute specials or discounts from any of the above booking options. In the Caribbean or Florida for example, special promotions include sail 10 days for the price of 7, or 15% – 20% off the charter cost. No matter what your method is for chartering a boat, always be prepared, and let nothing get in the way of a good time.

 

E-mail us your opinions and experiences at any time to info@sailing-advisor.com. Or call us toll-free at 1-866-754-7256.

The information provided in Sailing-Advisor.com is based on the opinion of the writers and is presented in good faith. All information is subject to change.